Barritt extends stay with Saracens

Saracens and England centre Brad Barritt has committed his future to the club signing a long-term deal with the Allianz Park outfit.

The 28-year old is the latest Saracen to commit his future to the north Londoners, following the likes of Marcelo Bosch, Owen Farrell, Maro Itoje and George Kruis in signing contract extensions.

On signing his new deal, Barritt said: "I’m absolutely delighted to stay a part of the Saracens family. I consider this place home and I’m really looking forward to the years ahead with this fantastic club.

"It’s been a privilege to be a part of this successful team and this squad’s evolution over the years. This club has really come on in the past seven seasons and I’m really looking forward to some happy and successful years ahead. I’m very grateful to all the coach’s and the players alongside me for their help in pushing me to play for higher honours. It’s been great to be part of the ride, and I’d like to think we’re still on the journey and the end is still far away.

Director of rugby, Mark McCall: "Since Brad arrived at Saracens in 2008 he has developed into one of the most influential players in both the club and international scene.

"Without question, he’s the most competitive person that I’ve come across. In the seven years that he’s been here Brad has grown as a player and as a person. He’s a warrior, leads by example and is held in the upmost respect by everyone at Saracens. He is a world class player, and is a key figure for both club and country.

"We’re over the moon that Brad sees his long-term future at Allianz Park."

Barritt’s attention is now fixed on a crunch Premiership clash away to Northampton Saints in Milton Keynes, as Saracens look ahead to the remainder of the Premiership season.

The England man recently returned to action after recovering from an ankle injury just as Saracens enter the business end of the season. On his involvement in Sarries’ season run-in he added: "This group is extremely ambitious and we’ve used last weekend’s disappointment (defeat to ASM Clermont Auvergne) as a galvanising force for the rest of the season. There’s obviously a Premiership title to play for and it starts this Saturday against Northampton, who are formidable opponents. We relish the challenge and we’re looking to bounce back after last Saturday’s result.

"It’s just great to be back. Obviously it’s been very frustrating, in the Six Nations I had three injuries on the bounce but the body is feeling really good, and feeling very good in the games. We have a huge amount to play for and I’m looking forward to the challenges ahead."

Brad Barritt Fact File

Joined Saracens from Super 15 outfit The Sharks in 2008

Has made 142 Saracens appearances since making his debut against Gloucester in November 2008

Represented England Saxons, making a try-scoring debut against the USA in the summer 2009

Was named Saracens Player of the Season in the 2009/10 campaign

Has won 22 caps for England since making his debut in England’s Calcutta Cup victory against Scotland in February 2012

Was nominated for the Aviva Premiership Player of the Year Award in 2012.

Was called into the 2013 British & Irish Lions touring squad of Australia

Is currently studying for a MSc Degree in Business from Hertfordshire University